This is the first course of a two-semester chemistry program that provides teachers with everyday experiences are directly related to fundamental chemical concepts. As such, it emphasizes the need to make careful observations, collect data, formulate conclusions and make predictions based on those findings. Teachers gain knowledge and skills by observing local chemical phenomena that allow them to then examine more complex chemical systems like global warming, ozone depletion, and the greenhouse effect; air and water quality; ecosystems; environmental factors in evolution and biodiversity; the earth, and the food web. Inherent in this process is an exposure to modeling, both developing and using physical and mathematical models to describe observed chemical phenomena. Teachers will practice inquiry methods, enhance their critical thinking skills, and learn to use a variety of technical and laboratory skills to design, perform and interpret experiments.

Instructors

Sharon Palmer, Ph.D.
Project Manager, STEM Institute
University of Massachusetts, Amherst.
spalmer@k12s.phast.umass.edu

Peter Shaughnessy
Lecturer, Continuing Education
University of Massachusetts, Amherst.
petersh@k12s.phast.umass.edu

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